Wales fans one in a million

Principality Stadium will welcome its millionth rugby supporter through the turnstiles as Wales men's and women's teams take on Italy on Sunday.

Sunday marks the first time a women's international match has been played out ahead of a senior men's fixture at our national ground.

The NatWest 6 Nations clash with the Azzurri is the 15th home Wales game since Principality Building Society began their 10-year partnership with Welsh rugby, in January 2016, and 945,421 supporters have enjoyed their rugby at the Cardiff venue since that date.

Sunday's game is also the 125th senior men's international on site since the then Millennium Stadium rose so majestically from the rubble of the old National Stadium, Cardiff Arms Park in 1999.

Someone in the crowd will be the millionth Principality Stadium guest - the 54,579th arrival - and the honour of being counted as the eight millionth supporter since '99 will also go to the 65,025th fan on site.

"We often say that Welsh rugby has the best fans in the world game and we are hugely thankful that they continue to turn-out in their millions to support our national sport and therefore make significant contributions to safeguarding its future," said WRU chairman Gareth Davies.

"It is not just at senior international level either that Welsh rugby is a vibrant and appealing prospect to supporters.

"Once again next month when our four regional sides come together at Principality Stadium for the sixth annual Judgement Day double header (Saturday, 28th April), in excess of 60,000 are expected to turn out in support and Guinness PRO14 attendances in general are continuing to go from strength to strength.

"Sunday also marks the first time a women's international match has been played out ahead of a senior men's fixture at our national ground.

"The women's and girl's game is a huge area of growth for our sport and I know that the Six Nations Championship rugby on display from the women's national side will be equally appreciated by our knowledgeable and discerning supporters."

Wales Women kick-off at 11.45am, with Principality Stadium Gates opening from 11.30am, supporters are once again advised to enter the stadium early with new security measures in place meaning more time should be allowed for access.

The opening clash against Italy - Wales' men kick-off at 3.00pm - could also set a new record attendance at a Women's international if supporters heed advice to turn up early and show their support. The current record is around 20,000 supporters, set on Rugby World Cup finals day in 2014, but over 60,000 supporters hold tickets for Sunday's double-header Six Nations event.

A small amount of tickets to see two Six Nations games for the price of one on Sunday are still available at www.wru.co.uk/tickets

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